These images purportedly showing new AirPod Pro cases were uploaded to Chinese social media site Weibo, and then posted to SlashLeaksCredit: SlashLeaks / Weibo

These colours would reportedly include White, Black, Rose Gold and Midnight Green. The remaining four colours have not been leaked.

Apple hasn't announced any major launch events, but that doesn't mean a new product isn't on the way.

Sometimes smaller announcements are made via press release, so one may turn up later this week.

The original Apple AirPods launched in December 2016, and were mocked by many at the time.

But they've since become a beloved and fashionable gadget that has widely popularised wireless earphones.

Earlier this year, Apple launched a second-generation pair of AirPods that support wireless charging.

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Apple's attractive AirPods haven't had a major design change since they launched three years agoCredit: Alamy

Now a new pair of AirPods could borrow the same Pro branding we've seen on the iPhone 11 Pro, MacBook Pro and iPad Pro, apparently.

And they're expected to cost around $260 (around £200, but more likely £260).

That's far above Apple's current £159 AirPods.

According to the report, Apple will give the AirPods a new metal design to improve heat dissipation.

Previous reports have suggested that a new pair of AirPods are being developed with water-resistance and noise cancellation.

Noise cancellation is a popular and widespread headphone technology that shuts out ambient sound.

It's great for anyone trying to use headphones on an airplane, train or a busy street.

Apple AirPods 2 review – The Sun's verdict

Here's what tech editor Sean Keach had to say...

The AirPods are a masterclass in design: they look great, they work flawlessly and they make your life easier.

If you’re moving from regular cabled earbuds to AirPods, you’ll never want to go back.

I found the fit to be tight and secure even when running, and – despite my initial fears – I’ve never managed to lose one.

Battery life is better than ever, the new wireless charging is pretty handy (although the £40 upgrade won’t be for everyone), and hands-free Hey Siri is a useful feature if you’re brave enough to use it.

The AirPods 2 are attainably priced, retain all the best bits from the beloved original buds, and offer some minor upgrades to boot.

They're probably not worth an upgrade from the original AirPods unless (1) your old ones have dead batteries, (2) you're a wireless charging fanatic, or (3) you're an Apple obsessive.

But for newcomers and gadget lovers, I can't recommend the new AirPods enough.

The Sun says:The ultimate earbuds for iPhone owners, these easy-to-love headphones are the simplest way to upgrade your audio game today. ★★★★★

Of course, Apple hasn't made any announcements confirming a new pair of AirPods is on the way.

The company is famously secretive about upcoming products, so we won't know the truth until launch day.

It's also possible (as previously rumoured) that Apple could launch new AirPods in early 2020.

Apple is widely tipped to be hosting a press event next March, where we could see a new iPad Pro, a bigger 16-inch MacBook Pro and new AirPods.

22-year-old debuts a genius earring hack which ensures you’ll never lose you Apple Airpod headphones again

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